Category: Windows

Windows 10

With the introduction of Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 10, there are many who are unsure whether they should go through with the free upgrade. While there have been issues in the past with new OS releases, there are several good reasons for making the switch this time around. Here, you’ll discover five of the most important changes that are sure to put your fears and concerns to rest.

Cortana

Navigating any operating system can be difficult, even if you’ve used it for quite some time. Windows 10 solves those issues with Cortana, which is a voice-activated assistant that can help with everything from Internet searches to finding files and adding appointments to your calendar. This assistant can even have discussions with you and entertain you with jokes – all you have to do is type into the search box or speak into a microphone.

The Return of the Start Menu

Most people remember the horror of Win8, with its lack of a start menu, and Microsoft made sure to eliminate that issue with this new release. While some of the features that were added in Windows 8.1 are present, such as easy access to the Windows store and cloud storage, so too are the app blocks. However, users can adjust these up to four wide, providing space for 2,048 apps for easy access in the All Apps tab. Additionally, the most frequently used apps appear at the top of the list, along with suggestions for others based on the user’s history.

Improved Security

While nearly every new operating system released claims to have the latest and greatest security improvements, Windows 10 just might live up to the hype. Windows Hello is a biometric security software that unlocks your computer using iris, face or fingerprint recognition. While you do have to have a compatible Intel RealSense camera for facial recognition, most newer devices have the equipment needed for fingerprint scanning.

Another major security improvement with this release is the change to the default browser. Windows 10 features the Microsoft Edge browser as the default, and it provides many user-friendly updates. From improved searches to the ability to write, take notes and highlight information directly on webpages, this new browser makes research and writing much easier. Add in the fact that the Internet Explorer glitches won’t be a major issue or security concern, and this simply becomes a winning feature.

The Action Center

The handy notification center on mobile devices has finally made its way to the desktop with Windows 10. Known as the Action Center, this feature provides app and event notifications in an easy-to-access sidebar that users can peruse and clear at their leisure. This improves the fast-moving popup notifications on the desktop and makes sure you have access to them if you didn’t catch it in time to click on it.

Built-In Desktops

For those multitaskers out there, Windows 10 includes multiple built-in desktops rather than requiring add-on software to access them. A simple click of the icon brings up a Task View that shows all of the desktops the user is working with, making it quick and easy to switch between tasks.

Unlike some of the previous versions of Windows, 10 offers a variety of features that improve the overall user experience. If you want to find out more about Windows 10 or whether it is the right solution for your needs, contact us today.